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The rewarding business of art

Creative director thrives after starting her own company

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ā€˜I had to learn that a good life is a result of living in the present and great projects come through relationship building and being visible,ā€™ says Romain McLean. (Photo courtesy of McLean)

An artistā€™s priority is most often to pursue art. They are often introspective and prefer to spend time alone.

Those who work in the applied arts such as graphic design and work for a firm as designers and creative directors are able to devote themselves to their craft. Talented designers eventually develop their own point of view and strike out on their own. Graphic artist Romain McLean is part of this elite group of designers, who in 2005 founded Wildfire Design, LLC, a woman-owned, minority-owned, small business specializing in brand identity development.

ā€œAs a creative director I was trained to concentrate on doing the work and oftentimes I became obsessed with ideas. That frame of mind led me to live in my head resulting in an introverted life. I had to learn that a good life is a result of living in the present and great projects come through relationship building and being visible,ā€ McLean says. ā€œItā€™s been a long-term goal of mine to be more active in the LGBT and business community. In the past I worked in isolation and now I understand the importance of being connected to a positive network of professionals. It’s vital for me to get Wildfire Design in the mix. Being involved in CAGLCC gives me the opportunity to build strong business relationships with like-minded people.ā€

McLean has more than 10 years of experience as a graphic designer, creative director and brand identity specialist, working with clients ranging from non-profit organizations to government agencies. Wildfire Design has done work for such organizations as D.C. Water and Sewer Authority (DCWASA), Special Anti Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT), ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership, Katrina Aid Today, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of Technology/City of New Orleans, Tech International Corporation, Amglobal Consulting among many others. These commissions are the product of multiple skills: exceptional talent, effective business development and healthy client relations.

For more information and examples of Wildfire Designā€™s work, go to wildfirenet.com.

Programs and events

Each Thursday morning, CAGLCC members convene at Intelligent Office (1425 K St., N.W.) for breakfast and a large dose of business edification at MasterMind Group. ā€œA mastermind is defined as two or more people working in perfectĀ harmony and alignment for the attainment of a definite end,ā€ says group leader Jay Vilar, president, Plan A Consulting. ā€œEach member of CAGLCCā€™s MasterMind Group participates because of who they are,Ā who they represent in the world, and the positive impact of their work. Successful people surround themselves with like-mindedĀ individuals in order to find the solution for current and future problemsĀ that they couldn’t solve on their own.ā€

MasterMind Group arises from the need to come together as a community of individuals to learn and discuss business-related topics in an environment conducive to open deliberation and peer support. The sessions run the gamut of business topics from finding the right business path to achieving personal and business goals. Each week, Vilar sets the subject, introduces talking points for the group, who takes over the discussion.

Mark Guenther, CAGLCC executive director, observes ā€œThe richness of the dialogue during the interactive ā€˜think tankā€™ help me see ways to be more effective at my job. The collective input and energy put toward problem solving is an amazing tool. As the executive director of the Chamber, I am very proud we are able to offer this program.ā€

For more information on MasterMind Group, go here.

CAGLCC member news

Local author Garrett Peck has signed with History Press to write “Prohibition in Washington, D.C.: How Dry We Weren’t,” which will be published in spring 2011.

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Real Estate

What LGBTQ buyers, sellers need to know about new real estate rules

Regulations are reshaping how transactions are conducted

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The real estate landscape has undergone significant changes in recent months. (Photo by Atstock Productions/Bigstock)

In recent months, the real estate landscape has undergone significant changes, with new rules and regulations reshaping how transactions are conducted. These changes affect buyers and sellers across the board, but LGBTQ individuals and couples navigating the housing market should be particularly aware of how these updates might impact their decisions and opportunities. At GayRealEstate.com, weā€™re here to keep you informed and empowered.

1. Transparency in Agent Compensation

One of the most notable changes involves how real estate agents are compensated. New rules aim to increase transparency, requiring agents to clearly disclose their commissions and how they are paid. For LGBTQ buyers and sellers, this means youā€™ll have a better understanding of the financial side of your transaction, making it easier to avoid hidden fees or misunderstandings.

Tip: Make sure your agent explains their compensation structure up front. Working with an LGBTQ-friendly real estate agent through GayRealEstate.com ensures youā€™re connected with professionals who prioritize clarity and fairness.

2. Contracts Before Home Tours

In some areas, buyers are now required to sign a representation agreement before touring homes. While this adds a layer of formality, it can also help you establish a stronger relationship with your agent and ensure theyā€™re working in your best interest.

What It Means for LGBTQ Buyers: Choosing an agent who understands your unique needs is critical. Signing a contract ensures that your agent is committed to helping you find a home in a community where youā€™ll feel safe and welcome.

3. New Protections Against Discrimination

Recent policy changes reinforce anti-discrimination measures in housing, which is particularly relevant for LGBTQ individuals. While federal laws like the Fair Housing Act prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, some states have gone further by implementing additional protections.

How to Navigate: Familiarize yourself with your stateā€™s specific laws, and rely on LGBTQ-friendly agents who are committed to advocating for your rights throughout the transaction process.

4. Market Conditions: Buyers vs. Sellers

The current housing market is in flux, with inventory levels, interest rates, and demand varying widely by region. Sellers may face longer listing times, while buyers could encounter more competitive environments in desirable areas.

5. Mortgage Updates for LGBTQ Couples

Lenders are becoming more inclusive in recognizing diverse family structures, but disparities still exist. Itā€™s essential to work with lenders who understand your unique situation and ensure fair treatment during the mortgage process.

Advice: An LGBTQ-friendly agent can connect you with lenders who are sensitive to your needs and knowledgeable about programs that support equal access to home financing.

Why These Changes Matter

The new rules emphasize fairness, transparency, and accountability ā€” values that align closely with the mission of GayRealEstate.com. However, navigating these changes requires expert guidance, especially for LGBTQ buyers and sellers who may face additional challenges in the market.

Take Action Today

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant decisions youā€™ll make, and having the right support can make all the difference. At GayRealEstate.com, we connect LGBTQ buyers and sellers with experienced, LGBTQ-friendly agents who are committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve your goals.

Whether youā€™re just starting your real estate journey or ready to make your next move, weā€™re here to help. Visit GayRealEstate.com to find your perfect agent and get started today.

This article is brought to you by GayRealEstate.com, the nationā€™s largest network of LGBTQ-friendly real estate agents.


Jeff Hammerberg is founding CEO of Hammerberg & Associates, Inc. Reach him at 303-378-5526.

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Real Estate

Your holiday home journey

Real estate decisions often tap into our deeper desires for connection

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Real estate decisions often tap into our deeper desires for connection, stability, and legacy ā€” values closely tied to the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving and real estate share an essential theme: the importance of home. It is traditionally a time of gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. While its hallmark symbols may include turkey dinners, family gatherings, and autumnal dĆ©cor, it also invites us to think deeply about our values and who and what we hold dear. 

For some people, the family home connotes a place of safety, comfort, and community. For others, visiting with family over the holiday can be a contentious and stressful ordeal best avoided. Countless of my friends have severed toxic relationships that can rival an exploding, deep-fried turkey. They have opted instead for dining out or hosting a gathering of food and football with like-minded people.

During Thanksgiving, the idea of ā€œhomeā€ becomes particularly poignant. It is more than just a physical structure; itā€™s where people gather, memories are made, and traditions are passed down. For those involved in real estate ā€” whether as professionals or as individuals embroiled in the market ā€” this emotional dimension of home is a driving force.

When buying a house, itā€™s not just about square footage or the number of bedrooms. It’s about envisioning a Thanksgiving dinner in the dining room, imagining children playing in the backyard, or hosting friends in the cozy living space. Real estate decisions often tap into our deeper desires for connection, stability, and legacy ā€” values closely tied to the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving falls in the quieter part of the real estate calendar, with spring and summer being the traditionally hot seasons for buying and selling. Yet, for those who choose to list their homes in November, the holiday offers unique opportunities. Sellers can use Thanksgivingā€™s warm, inviting atmosphere to their advantage, staging homes with seasonal touches like autumn wreaths, a cornucopia of fruits and nuts, the sparkle of a dining room chandelier, and the scent of freshly baked pies.

A well-decorated home during this time can evoke an emotional connection with potential buyers. A cozy environment can help them imagine spending their future holidays in that very space. Additionally, homes listed during the Thanksgiving season often face less competition, as fewer properties are on the market. This can lead to more serious offers from motivated buyers.

For buyers, Thanksgiving can function as a reminder of why they are on the hunt for a new home in the first place. Perhaps they are looking for a bigger space for a growing family. They may be downsizing to retire or to simplify life. They might be looking for home to accommodate both children and aging parents simultaneously. The holiday season underscores the importance of finding a home that aligns with lifestyle needs and future goals.

In our tight real estate market, buyers still face challenges such as limited inventory and higher interest rates; however, Thanksgiving encourages a shift in perspective. Itā€™s a time to focus on gratitude for what is within reach ā€” whether itā€™s finding a starter home, securing a dream property, or taking incremental steps toward long-term, financial goals.

Interestingly, Thanksgiving weekend has become an increasingly popular time for real estate research. Families can gather around the table and begin discussing the future, including moving to a new city, upgrading their home, or purchasing an investment property. Digital tools like web searches and virtual tours can help buyers and sellers stay connected to the real estate market without disrupting their Thanksgiving traditions.

Whether you are buying or selling, Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of gratitude in real estate. For buyers, itā€™s about being thankful for the chance to find a home that meets their needs, even if the journey is challenging. For sellers, itā€™s a moment to appreciate the memories made in a home while looking forward to new opportunities. 

For real estate agents and other industry professionals, Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude to clients and colleagues, build stronger relationships, and highlight the human aspect of a business often driven by transactions alone.

If you are staying put this Thanksgiving, you have a chance to celebrate your current home, no matter its size or condition. Simple gestures like decorating with fall colors, rearranging furniture for a cozy feel, or preparing a special meal can deepen your connection to your space. Inviting neighbors, friends, or family to share in the festivities can reinforce the sense of community that makes a house a home.

Whether itā€™s the home you currently have, the one youā€™re searching for, or the one you are leaving behind, each holds a unique place in your life story. Take stock of the journey so far, recognize the progress made, and look forward to the possibilities ahead.

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Real Estate

Who are the people involved in a real estate transaction?

Lenders, agents, inspectors, and more play a role

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There are many players in a real estate transaction, starting with the agents. (Photo by Machineheadz/Bigstock)

When buying a house for the first time, people may wonder if their life is going to be like what you see on HGTV or another TV show. Yes, some real estate agents drive nice cars, put photos on social media of beautiful countertops, luscious landscaping, stunning backsplashes, high-end appliances with bespoke details, and price tags that seem like they belong on a television show ā€“ stuff that ā€œvision boardsā€ are made of.

Real estate can be sexy. There is also the experience of what I call, ā€œthe everyday transaction.ā€ This is the situation where someone may be the first in their family or friend group to buy a property. Or maybe this is the last one of their friends to buy a home. It could be the person that just got a notice from their apartment community that their rent was going up by $500 a month next year, and they decided it was time to start putting this inevitable amount of money into an investment each month. As my previous broker calls it, homeownership is a ā€œforced savings plan.ā€ It can be hard to force oneself to save at times, but your rent payment is going into equity. At some point, you can sell the investment and get back the money you put into it. Rent that is $2,400 a month can easily turn into over $115,000 during one presidential term.  

The cast of characters in a real estate transaction includes:

ā€¢ The buyer agent and the sellerā€™s agent (if the house is for sale by owner, then no seller agent)

ā€¢ The lender (mortgage officer) and their team

ā€¢ The title company (a company of attorneys and staff to help with the legal aspects of transferring ownership, recording the deed with the municipality or state and transferring water utilities, paying off the old mortgage with the proceeds from the sale, etc.)

ā€¢ Any employees of a city or county that might be brought in (e.g. a down payment assistance loan funded by a municipality)

ā€¢ A home inspector (if an inspection is requested by a buyer)

ā€¢ Any contractors that are brought in for estimates for repairs or work projects.

These are the people that are brought into the transaction to help bring it to completion.  A good agent usually has recommendations on title companies and attorneys, home inspectors, lenders, may have contacts with city or county departments for processing permits, etc. and will utilize the network they have built over the years to help coordinate a smooth transaction (as smooth as possible) and result in a happy seller and a happy buyer.  

Who you work with matters. If you have more questions about this, please do not hesitate to ask. Yes, real estate CAN be sexy, but you also want competent people working on your behalf, who know how to navigate the process smoothly. 


JosephĀ HudsonĀ is a referral agent with Metro Referrals. Reach him atĀ [email protected]Ā or 703-587-0597.

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